South Korea’s Factory Activity Surges to 4-Month High on Export Boom

South Korea's factory growth hits 4-month peak as export demand surges, PMI reveals record expansion in semiconductors and auto sectors.

Editorial Desk

October 1, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Seoul, South Korea — South Korea’s manufacturing sector experienced its fastest growth in four months during September, driven by a surge in export demand that reached its highest level in over 15 years, according to a recent survey.

The Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI), released by S&P Global, rose to 53.9 in September from 52.3 in August, marking the strongest reading since May. The index has now remained above the 50-point threshold—indicating expansion—for ten consecutive months.

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Industry analysts attributed the sharp increase in output and new orders to strong performance in the semiconductor and automotive industries. New export orders saw their largest rise since March 2011, with significant demand coming from Europe and Asia. Manufacturers also expressed heightened optimism for the year ahead, reaching an eight-month high in confidence.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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